Kieran teaches non-competitive Irish dance, presenting classes and workshops in Boston and worldwide.
Her classes emphasize body-awareness, rhythm, musicality, and performing skills. She brings a holistic approach to
her teaching, incorporating exercises in composition, improvisation, and mind-body techniques. Kieran earned her T.C.R.G.
(Irish dance teacher certification) from An Coímísíun le Ríncí Gaelacha in 2002. In 2005, she completed a Masters
Degree in Contemporary Dance Performance at the University of Limerick, Ireland. In Boston, she continues her own
movement training, taking classes in modern dance, somatics, and fitness techniques. Please join Kieran for a unique
and uplifting learning experience in Irish dance.
“Her classes appear to be a rare find.”
— Cambridge Chronicle
Beyond the Feis™ is Kieran’s workshop for Irish dancing schools.
It is designed to introduce Irish step dancers to aspects of traditional dance and music that extend beyond competition
steps and competition culture. The workshop lasts one to two days and can be tailored specifically to meet the needs
and interests of a particular dancing school. It is best suited to dancers ages 11 and up. Topics include:
- The History of Irish Dance
- Music for Dancers: Understanding Traditional Irish Music and Working With Musicians
- Safety Dance: Warm-ups, Alignment, Stretching, and Strengthening for Irish Dance
- Skills for Stage: Enhancing Your Performance Technique
- Introduction to ”Sean-nós“ (old style) Irish step dance
- Introduction to Irish Set Dancing
- Survey of Related Step Dance Styles (Cape Breton, Appalachian Clogging, Tap)
- Improvisation in Hard Shoe Dance (Percussive Dance Jam)
- Choreography and Composition for Irish Dance Performance
For more information, please contact Kieran.
Weekly classes begin: Monday and Tuesday, September 15 and 16
End-of-season holiday event: Tuesday, December 2
Registration Information: Classes are non-competitive, and are offered for teens and adults, ages 11 and up. Pre-registration is required for all class sessions and was due by August 29.
Shoes: Kieran recommends Fays Shoes for traditional Irish dance or Capezio dance sneakers or “dance sleekers” as alternative practice shoes. For sean-nós dance shoes, please read Kieran’s article For Dance Students and Sole Mates: Resources, Links, and Geeked-Out Ideas for Creating the Perfect Sean-nós Dance Shoe.
Sean-nós Irish Step Dance - NEW CLASS FOR BEGINNERS!
10-Week Session
Sean-nós ("old style") Irish step dance is a percussive, expressive, close-to-the-floor dance style. It requires good music listening skills and a willingness to improvise and play with rhythm and performance. Historically performed as a solo dance form in informal settings, the sean-nós “old style” is looser and more improvisational than the newer Irish step dance styles that have prevailed since the early 1900s. Sean-nós dance experienced a serious decline in the 20th Century, and the art form nearly disappeared. But in recent years, a handful of influential dancers have brought the steps and traditions back to life, and now, sean-nós dance is flourishing. A sean-nós dance revival is sweeping Ireland and spreading to American dance communities as well. This beginner level class will introduce students to the traditions, steps, and styles of sean-nós dance. No experience required! Please see information above about shoes.
- Mondays, Sept 15 — Nov 24
- (no class Oct 13, Columbus Day)
- 7:30 – 8:30 pm
- The Dance Complex (Studio 5)
- 536 Massachusetts Ave.
- Central Square, Cambridge, MA
- $130 due by August 29 — see Registration information above
Sean-nós Irish Step Dance For Experienced Dancers
10-Week Session
In this class session, we will continue to explore performance, improvisation, and choreographic structures, working closely with traditional Irish music. This class is best suited to dancers with at least one year of sean-nós dance experience (or by instructor’s permission).
Intermediate Irish Dance (Traditional Step and Céilí Dancing)
10-Week Session
This class focuses on traditional and original performance material in step and céilí dancing. Each class will include a thorough warm-up and strengthening exercises followed by steps and repertoire. Choreography, improvisation, and somatic techniques will also be included. Students enrolling in this class should have at least 2 years of experience in soft and hard shoes, creative spirits, and a willingness to try new things.
Advanced Irish Dance (Traditional Step and Céilí Dancing)
10-Week Session
This class focuses on traditional and original performance material in step and céilí dancing. Each class will include a thorough warm-up and strengthening exercises followed by steps and repertoire. Choreography, improvisation, and somatic techniques will also be included. Students enrolling in this class should have intermediate-advanced level proficiency in soft and hard shoe dancing, creative spirits, and a willingness to try new things.
- Mondays, Sept 15 — Nov 24
- (no class Oct 13, Columbus Day)
- 5:45 – 7:15 pm
- The Dance Complex (Studio 5)
- 536 Massachusetts Ave.
- Central Square, Cambridge, MA
- $140 due by August 29 — see Registration information above
